Fort Worth to Break Ground on Panther Island Park
The Tarrant Regional Water District will launch construction on new canals and a park on November 30, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Construction
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On November 30, 2026, the Tarrant Regional Water District will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for new canals and a three-acre park on Panther Island. The development will take place at the site of the former Coyote Drive-In movie theater.
Why it matters
The project integrates essential stormwater infrastructure with recreational space for the community. By incorporating the existing Coyote Drive-In pavilion, the plan preserves a piece of local history while advancing urban development.
The development plan features a 3-acre park and a network of 4 distinct canals. Three of these water features are situated on the northern island, with one located on the southern island.
The players
Tarrant Regional Water District
This public agency manages water supply and flood control infrastructure throughout the North Texas region.
The details
The canals are designed to serve dual purposes as critical stormwater infrastructure and public paseo paths for recreation. This initial phase of the Panther Island development and the canal network will move forward independently from the separate bypass channel construction project.
Timeline
September 2026: Bypass channel construction contract was awarded.
November 30, 2026: Groundbreaking for canals and the three-acre park occurs.
Winter 2026/Early 2027: Construction on the bypass channel is expected to begin.
2029: Bypass channel construction is expected to conclude.
Market Landscape
The groundbreaking marks a major step forward for the long-term Panther Island flood control and redevelopment project. This progress signifies a continued commitment to large-scale urban infrastructure that balances necessary flood mitigation with commercial and public development.
Residents can expect new recreational opportunities as the former Coyote Drive-In site transforms into a public park. The inclusion of paseo paths provides expanded walking access for the local community once the canal construction is complete.
The takeaway
The transformation of the Coyote Drive-In site highlights a trend of repurposing local landmarks into functional multi-use infrastructure. Residents interested in the area should monitor upcoming phases as the bypass channel construction nears its start date.
What happens next
Construction on the bypass channel is scheduled to commence in winter 2026 or early 2027, with project completion anticipated in 2029.
Further reading
Find more details on local infrastructure progress in the Fort Worth Construction section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
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